Let’s be honest, braiding hair for kids is often an adventure, isn’t it? Especially when those energetic bundles of joy are your very own!
We all know that morning rush (even before breakfast!) can make achieving that perfect, unique, and eye-popping hairstyle feel like a mission impossible for many parents. It’s tough to create those intricate looks when your little one is practically doing acrobatics before 8 AM!
For many African families, this beautiful and complex braid hairstyle is a cherished, priceless tradition passed down through generations. It’s a creative process that’s deeply valued and, understandably, something parents want to do with immense care and attention to detail.
But here’s the good news, busy parents: you absolutely can honor this tradition and create stunning braided looks without needing hours of extra time or saint-like patience!
Luckily, the world of children’s hairstyles is brimming with a plethora of beautiful braid styles that are both gorgeous and surprisingly quick to achieve. So, you can still give your little one that fabulous, meaningful look without the morning struggle.
The Origin Of Braids
It’s absolutely fascinating to trace the roots of braiding, and as you beautifully put it, Africa is truly the initial foundation of this incredible art form. It’s a profound cultural statement.
As Larry Sims, the renowned celebrity hairstylist and Schwarzkopf brand ambassador, so eloquently stated, “Braids have been impressionable throughout history.” And boy, do we agree!
She further emphasized that the origin of braids can be traced back an astonishing 5,000 years in African culture, all the way to 3500 BC, where they were incredibly popular among women. Imagine the rich history woven into every strand!
#1 Beaded Braid Bonanza
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#2 Sweetheart Beaded Braids
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#3 Swirling Pigtail Braids
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#4 Bantu Knot Princess Braids
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The historical chronicle paints a vivid picture of how this fabulous art was initially championed by the Himba people of Namibia.
For them, and for many other African communities, braids weren’t just about looking good. They were a powerful trademark, a visual language that instantly indicated members of different tribes.
Beyond tribal identity, the intricate patterns and styles of braids were also a sophisticated way to subtly reveal so much about the wearer. They served as a living resume to showcase the owner’s age, marital status, wealth, power, and even their religion.
No wonder this stunning tradition has been so deeply treasured and lovingly passed on from generation to generation among Africans. It’s a testament to heritage, identity, and the enduring beauty of cultural expression.
#5 Playful Bead Braids
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#6 African Princess Knots
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#7 Pink Bow Princess Braids
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#8 Twin Bun Braids
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It’s true, the delicate styling process of traditional African braids often means they take a good bit of time to complete. But this isn’t seen as a chore; it’s actually become a wonderful opportunity!
People have historically taken advantage of this time to socialize with each other, sharing stories, laughter, and building stronger bonds. Imagine the rich conversations happening as skilled hands weave intricate patterns.
#9 Braided Pony Pop
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#10 Blue Ribbon Braids
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#11 Pink Heart Braids
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#12 Simple n Chic
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Think about this beautiful legacy: back in the day, the adults in the family would lovingly braid their kids’ hair. And what a special teaching moment that was!
Slowly but surely, those children would learn how to style it properly themselves, absorbing the techniques and traditions. When they became parents, they’d pass that knowledge on to their own youngsters.
Just like this, the art of braiding has become so much more than just a hairstyle. It’s a special bond between descendants and their ancestors, a tangible connection to their heritage that continues through the generations.
#13 Swirl & Braid Updo
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#14 Cornrow Coil Creation
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Considering their intriguing and sophisticated beauty, it’s absolutely no surprise that African braids have soared to such high stature and made their magnificent way across the world! Their artistry and cultural depth are undeniable.
It was truly around the 1900s that braids blossomed into a universal sensation. Suddenly, you saw people of all ages and genders proudly rocking their own unique braided hairstyles, a testament to the enduring appeal and versatility of this ancient art form.
#15 Beaded Box Braid Bliss
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#16 Heart Braid Pigtails
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A Fashion Trend That Will Never Be Obsolete
Let’s hear it for the enduring power of braids! As Nunzio Saviano, the brilliant professional hairstylist and owner of Nunzio Saviano Salon, perfectly put it: “In my opinion, braids will never be out of the picture. They’re always going to be fashionable because they’re practical and chic.”
And she couldn’t be more right! Braids truly are the ultimate blend of effortless cool and undeniable sophistication, making them a perennial favorite that never fades from the style scene.
#17 Purple Puff Princess Braids
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#18 Intricate Bow Braids
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#19 Flower Pattern Braids
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#20 Starburst Cornrows
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#21 Sideswept Braids
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It’s absolutely heartwarming to see that African families across the globe are still passionately continuing the beautiful habit of braiding their hair. And with even more dazzling and creative styles emerging all the time, of course!
Despite the whirlwind of modern life and increasingly packed schedules, it’s truly a testament to love and heritage that many parents still dedicate their precious time to meticulously polishing their kids’ braids. It’s a cherished ritual, a connection to roots, and a display of devotion that truly warms the heart.
#22 Checkered Crown Princess
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#23 Swirl Pattern
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#24 Spiral Swirl Braids
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#25 Neat Braid Bun
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Now, if you’re a fantastic father or a wonderful mother who’s eager to continue this incredibly beautiful tradition but finds yourself facing the classic challenge of little ones who just can’t seem to sit still (we’ve all been there!), don’t you worry!
We’ve got just the thing for you. Instead of wrestling with squirmy sweethearts, you can simply spend a little time scrolling down our fantastic list of easy-to-make braided hairstyles.
